“After sitting dark for nearly two decades, a historic building in Rogers Park is set to shine once again. The long-vacant former Engine Co. #102 firehouse, located at 1721–23 W. Greenleaf Ave., is officially slated for a $3 million transformation that will breathe new life into the neighborhood as a vibrant café and community event space.
“Built in 1915, the two-story brick station served the Rogers Park community for nearly a century before operations relocated to North Clark Street in 2009. Left unoccupied for 17 years, the 111-year-old, city-owned structure became the subject of an open Request for Proposals (RFP) by Chicago’s Department of Planning and Development to put city-owned firehouses back into use. Out of five competitive submissions, one plan rose to the top.
“This thoughtful proposal will preserve a beautiful building with new uses that reinforce its role as a community anchor while complementing pedestrian-oriented retail activity on nearby Clark Street,” announced DPD Commissioner Ciere Boatright.
“Led by developer Ryan Cummings and Michael Salvatore of Chicago’s Heritage Hospitality Group, the $3 million project aims to respect the building’s historic bones and preserve its character while injecting modern utility. The team intends to purchase the 6,323-square-foot property at its market value of $350,050.
“By turning a shuttered municipal relic into a bustling gathering spot, the project preserves the neighborhood’s rich architectural history while fueling local economic growth. According to a process detailed by Preservation Chicago, the proposal will undergo a detailed design review and community outreach before any permits are issued to begin work, but the first steps towards revitalization of this beloved firehouse are a welcome sign for Rogers Park residents.” (Lopez, Time Out Chicago, 6/1/26)
“Cummings said he heard from neighbors and Ald. Maria Hadden (49th), whose ward includes the firehouse, that the neighborhood is craving a sort of ‘third space,’ where people can hang out for the day or plan a date night.
“The team wants to retain as many of the building’s historical features as they can, like the original staircase, marble shower separators and metal lockers, Cummings said. The buildings is in ‘dilapidated’ condition, with peeling paint, standing water and holes in the roof, so restoring it will be a long process, he said.” (Savedra, Block Club Chicago, 6/2/26)
Read the full story at Time Out Chicago and Block Club Chicago
- This former Chicago firehouse in Rogers Park is becoming a cafe and event space after a $3 million redevelopment plan, The historic building is set to finally receive an upgrade after sitting vacant since 2009, Gerrish Lopez, Time Out Chicago, 6/1/26
- Rogers Park Firehouse Could Become Cafe, Co-Working Space As Developers Work To Restore It, The 111-year-old former fire station has been empty since 2009 and is in rough condition. It could house a cafe or bar, though plans are still in progress, Madison Savedra, Block Club Chicago, 6/2/26
- Shuttered Rogers Park Firehouse To Reopen as Café, Event Venue, City of Chicago Press Release, May 28, 2026
- Requests for Proposals for 1721 W. Greenleaf Ave, a Retired 1915 firehouse available for revitalization, City of Chicago, October 2025